Glazed sun-spaces provide light and heat to BEDZED homes, and photovoltaic arrays generate electricity
BedZED is an integrated development of 100 homes (both private and social housing) in Hackbridge, Surrey, which was completed and occupied in 2002. It was initiated by BioRegional and ZEDfactory, and developed by the Peabody Housing association.
The development was designed to be carbon-neutral, both in use and in construction. High levels of insulation cut heating demand, and efficient lights and appliances were installed. Solar photovoltaics provide part of the electricity supply. Building materials were sourced locally. Recycling,composting and car-share schemes reduce environmental impact in other ways.
The most recent survey of energy use (2007) found that electricity use per person was 34% less than the average for the Borough of Sutton, and heat use was 77% less. And although the biomass plant that was intended to provide both heat and power was not successful, it's hoped that a biomass boiler will soon provide heat. Zero carbon will soon be the norm in new build, and the learning from BedZED (both successes and failures) is hugely valuable in achieving this.
